![\"\u2018He](\"https:\/\/static.toiimg.com\/thumb\/msid-130483027,imgsize-35318,width-400,height-225,resizemode-4\/mukesh-choudhary.jpg\" "\\"Mukesh")
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nNEW DELHI: A deeply emotional night at the Wankhede Stadium saw Chennai Super Kings skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad dedicate his side\u2019s emphatic 103-run win over Mumbai Indians in IPL 2026 to teammate Mukesh Choudhary, who played despite the recent passing of his mother.The CSK players wore black armbands in tribute, turning a dominant performance into a poignant moment of solidarity and resilience.<\/p>\n Gaikwad was visibly moved as he spoke about Mukesh\u2019s effort under difficult circumstances.\u201cPretty tough on him. Hats off to him, coming in that situation, it takes a lot mentally. He came back for the team, for the franchise, because he knew we needed him. All glory to him. We all wanted to be there for him and chipped away for him,\u201d he said.He reiterated the emotional weight behind the victory, adding, \u201cPretty tough on him (Mukesh Choudhary), I would dedicate this win to him. All glory to him. Everyone chipped in and wanted to be there for him.\u201dMukesh responded with a disciplined spell of 1\/31, striking early to remove Quinton de Kock and setting the tone for CSK\u2019s dominance.<\/p>\n The victory itself was built on a complete team performance. Gaikwad revealed that the decision to bat first was instinctive.\u201cFeels good. I was still 50-50 at the toss. My gut feeling was saying we should bat first because it was a bit green but also a bit dry. We had to assess in the first couple of overs. Sanju and I said it’s not coming on nicely, so anywhere around 200 would be good,\u201d he explained.That assessment proved spot on as Sanju Samson smashed a \u201cmagnificent\u201d unbeaten 101 to power CSK to 207\/6.\u201cSanju also played a magnificent knock. He’s been in fantastic touch. Everyone chipped in really well\u2026 even the 20s helped,\u201d Gaikwad said.He also praised the bowling unit, adding, \u201cAnd then Akeal and Noor did well. Our bowling was improving from our earlier games. I feel we are just starting to click.\u201dSpinners Akeal Hosein and Noor Ahmad led the charge as Mumbai were bundled out for 104.<\/div>\n\u2018Hats off to him\u2019: Gaikwad on Mukesh\u2019s courage
<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n\u2018We are starting to click\u2019: CSK captain on team effort
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